Targeted, operator-first support for regionally significant visitor experiences across the Riverina Murray
Destination Riverina Murray is proud to launch the Pilot Tourism Development Program, a targeted initiative delivering tailored, operator-first support to strengthen regionally significant visitor experiences and build industry capability across the Riverina Murray.
Through one-on-one mentoring, practical tools, tailored focus areas and a structured roadmap, the program will support established and regionally significant operators in creating high‑quality, market‑ready visitor experiences, while informing the delivery of a future cornerstone DRM initiative.
The Riverina Murray is rich with bold ideas, passionate operators, and experiences worth travelling for. As one of NSW’s largest and most diverse regions, spanning almost 150,000 square kilometres across 22 local government areas, the Riverina Murray has an important role to play in driving visitor economy growth.
In line with the NSW Visitor Economy Strategy 2035 and the Riverina Murray Destination Management Plan, the Pilot Tourism Development Program reflects a more targeted, outcomes-focused approach to operator support, backing the people doing the on the ground with practical guidance, stronger connections and clearer pathways to growth.
The Pilot program is designed to complement existing council-led tourism efforts and help reduce pressure on local resources by offering expert support directly to operators, while strengthening the Riverina Murray visitor economy.
For operators with big growth potential, ready to deliver real impact for the Riverina Murray visitor economy.
Program Overiew
Following an initial application and assessment process to confirm project viability and alignment with DRM objectives, the Pilot Tourism Development Program will commence with an introductory session to connect participants and outline expectations.
Each operator will then take part in a one-on-one site visit and experience audit, where DRM’s Industry Development Manager will provide tailored insights and recommendations and work with participants to develop a personalised roadmap.
Participants will be supported through a series of monthly focus areas and networking opportunities designed to identify gaps, unlock opportunities unique to each business, and help achieve key milestones and measurable outcomes.
Following an EOI process, operators with strong potential for growth and regional significance will be selected.
Audit & Roadmap
Program launches with a digital health check, site visit and experience audit to inform the development of a strategic roadmap.
Focus Areas & Mentorship
Over the course of 10 months, participants will move through monthly focus areas, mentorship & networking opportunities.
Alumni Network
At its completion, participants will stay connected to future development opportunities exclusive to the DRM industry ecosystem.
Course Focus Areas
Participants will be supported through 6–8 tailored focus areas, selected in consultation to build the core capabilities needed to strengthen visitor experiences, including:
• Experience Development • Visitor Experience & Customer Understanding • Strategic Marketing & Branding • Data Analysis • Business Fundamentals • Distribution & Bookability • Sustainability & Regenerative Tourism • Accessibility & Inclusion • First Nations Engagement • Agritourism & Niche Market Development • Digital Capability & Innovation • Workforce Development • Strategic Partnerships & Industry Alignment • PR & Influencer Engagement • Award Submissions & Grants • Planning & Regulation
Expert Mentors: Industry leaders, DNSW advisors, and NSW First facilitators
Access To Resources: NSW First toolkits, templates, and case studies, Industry resources
Peer Learning: Group discussions, regional showcases, and industry stakeholder collaboration
Strategic Roadmaps: tailored to each business’s goals, gaps and growth opportunities
Who should apply?
The program is intended Riverina Murray-based operators who are well-positioned to act on tailored support, progress development priorities, and bring regionally significant experiences to market within the allocated timeframe.
To ensure the Pilot Tourism Development Program delivers meaningful, measurable outcomes for both operators and the wider Riverina Murray visitor economy, eligibility criteria have been set to focus on readiness, potential and impact.
